YORK, Maine — Signs have appeared around town cautioning residents about the possibility of a “Whiskey fungus zone” in York. The signs, which can be seen on York Street, urge residents to take action against Wiggly Bridge Distillery’s proposed expansion. One sign even directs people to a website called fungusfreeyork.com, which condemns the approval for the distillery’s new rickhouses.

The decision of whether or not Wiggly Bridge Distillery will be allowed to build a new barrel house and expand its facility lies in the hands of the Planning Board. The board is set to meet on Thursday to discuss and vote on the matter. The presence of Baudoinia, also known as “whiskey fungus,” is a determining factor in the board’s decision. Concerns have been raised by neighboring property owners about the fungus and its potential impact on property values and health.

A study commissioned by the town, conducted by the University of Maine, concluded that the distillery was the likely source of the nearby fungus. However, the owners of Wiggly Bridge Distillery dispute these findings and argue that there is no evidence to suggest that the fungus poses a health risk.

Residents have become increasingly organized in their opposition to the distillery’s expansion. The website fungusfreeyork.com features an interactive map showing the locations of Baudoinia spores and their proximity to different addresses. Additionally, a petition has been started calling for Wiggly Bridge Distillery to be found in violation of the town’s ordinance due to the existing fungus. The petition demands that the distillery relocate its barrelhouse to a location that will not affect homes and businesses.

The distillery, which has been in operation for a decade, claims that the expansion is necessary in order to accommodate the growing demand for their product. They emphasize the need for more storage space for aging barrels, as well as plans to expand their whiskey-making facility and tasting room.

The Planning Board is currently reviewing the town’s code to determine if the presence of whiskey fungus violates any regulations regarding health and property. The website fungusfreeyork.com, whose creator is unknown, acknowledges the lack of research on the health effects of long-term exposure to the airborne spores of Baudoinia.

While there are contrasting opinions among residents, it is important for dialogue and communication to remain open. Concerns regarding the potential damage to vegetation and property siding caused by whiskey fungus are valid and require attention. The board’s decision will shape the future of Wiggly Bridge Distillery and its relationship with the community. It is crucial for all parties to come together to find a resolution that balances the interests of the distillery and the well-being of the residents.

Title: Wiggly Bridge Distillery Expansion: Whiskey Fungus Controversy

In a digital age where online debates and discussions are prevalent, the Wiggly Bridge Distillery expansion project in York, Maine faced an unexpected challenge. Jude Augusta, a concerned citizen, took to a Google Document titled “Fungus facts?” to express his worries about the potential harm caused by the distillery’s expansion. However, Augusta’s document also highlighted the positive contributions of the Woods family to the town and emphasized their love and care for the community in which they reside.

Seeking guidance and expertise, Augusta consulted whiskey distillation experts from the southern regions, who provided valuable insights. Included in his document was a detailed diagram comparing the average barrel house size of major distillers, which ranged from 20,000 to 45,000 square feet, with the Wiggly Bridge Distillery’s barrel house, measuring a modest 2,800 square feet.

David Woods, co-owner of the distillery, expressed gratitude for the support from Augusta and others who recognized the family’s genuine dedication to their craft and community. Nevertheless, the distillery opted not to engage with online opponents of the expansion. Woods firmly believed that matters of this nature should be addressed in a public forum, where decisions are made based on comprehensive discussions and input, rather than in the vast, sometimes chaotic expanse of the internet.

The Portsmouth Herald originally reported on the ongoing controversy surrounding Wiggly Bridge Distillery’s expansion and its encounter with whiskey fungus foes. While the story remains the same, it is essential to acknowledge the distinctive format chosen for this blog post.

In a departure from traditional narratives, this retelling aims to foster a unique reading experience that challenges the conventional style while maintaining the integrity of the original story. By presenting the facts in a different way, readers are encouraged to engage with the content from a fresh perspective, encouraging critical thinking and a departure from the mundane.

The Wiggly Bridge Distillery expansion battle underscores the importance of open dialogue and public discourse in resolving conflicts. While the internet provides a platform for exchange, it can often lack the necessary depth and nuance required for detailed discussions. Therefore, an in-person, public forum serves as a more appropriate arena for impartial, thorough decision-making.

Regardless of the format in which the story is presented, the heart of the matter remains the same: the concerns of community members, the commitment of the Woods family, and the need for thoughtful, inclusive discussions to find a resolution that benefits all parties involved.